Elements of self-control include the ability to defer gratification, the tendency to be cautious and diligent, cognitive ability, and sensitivity toward others. The construct of self-control is analyzed in terms of its relationship to official and self-reported measures of juvenile delinquency, based on data drawn from the Richmond Youth Study. The authors constructed an index that incorporated measures of cognitive ability and time orientation. Individuals with high verbal test scores and grade point averages were most likely to express values consistent with the Protestant ethic of deferred gratification, as predicted by self-control theory. Evidence also distinguished parental attachment from educational attachment, involvement, and commitment. The self-control index did not significantly affect self-reported delinquency, controlling measures such as peer delinquency, parental attachment, and belief. Variables included in the analysis are described in an appendix. 35 references and 3 tables